mineral
Lepidolite
K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2
Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, lilac, purplish-gray; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (micaceous sheets); Specific Gravity: 2.8–2.9
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Pink, lilac, purplish-gray
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, lilac, purplish-gray; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (micaceous sheets); Specific Gravity: 2.8–2.9
Formation & geological history
Found primarily in lithium-bearing granite pegmatites. It forms from late-stage crystallization when lithium concentrations are high enough to precipitate lithium-rich minerals.
Uses & applications
Primary source of lithium metal for batteries and alloys; used in glass making to increase toughness; popular for ornamental carvings, beads, and metaphysical specimens.
Geological facts
It was originally called 'lilalite' because of its lavender color. It is common to find lepidolite associated with other minerals like tourmaline (rubellite), spodumene (kunzite), and quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive lilac/purple color and micaceous habit (tendency to flake into thin, glittery scales). Often found in the Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States (Maine, California).
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic